Big Week Next Week at SSHS
by Don Julien
Next week (July 30-August 3) will be a big one at Sulphur Springs High School. Team tennis, volleyball and the band will begin practice for this season. There will also be camps for tennis and football. It’s also football season ticket week.
Wildcats Tennis Coach Tony Martinez, in his fifth season here, will be busy day and night next week. His tennis camps at the Wildcats Tennis Complex are scheduled on Monday through Thursday during the day next week. From 7 p.m. Until 9 p.m. during those days, the team tennis squad will begin practice for this season. They open the season with road matches against Denison and Sherman on August 6.
Lady Cats Volleyball Coach Justin Maness will begin his third season here with two-a-day practices on Wednesday. The Lady Cats open the season by hosting a scrimmage with Cumby and Commerce on August 6. The regular season starts August 7 against North Lamar and Sherman at Sherman.
Band Director Spencer Emmert will have a leadership session in the morning and full band orientation on Monday afternoon next week. Fundamentals and team building sessions are planned Tuesday morning. Full band rehearsals begin Wednesday mornings and afternoons and will continue on Thursday and Friday next week.
Wildcats Football Coach Greg Owens will have his football camps Tuesday through Thursday next week. Sessions with football freshmen are scheduled the following week with varsity players reporting August 13.
During season ticket week next week in the high school media center, renewals will take place Monday and Tuesday, upgrades on Wednesday with tickets that are left to be available to the general public on Thursday and Friday.

Elliott Leaves Legacy of Community Service
A legacy of community service remains following the death of William S. “Billy Sam” Elliott, 75, of Sulphur Springs. Elliott passed away on Thursday, July 26, 2018 at his residence.
Elliott served as president of the Sulphur Springs Independent School District Board of Trustees and president of the Hopkins County Dairy Festival. He is best remembered by many for his service as President and CEO of the Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce where he served for 15 years. During his years with the chamber, he led in establishing the Adult Leadership and High School Leadership Classes. Both the Adult and High School classes were formed each year and presented insight into the activity of the community. Local city and county government, poverty initiatives, ethics, civic organizations, and a number of other subjects were the focus of the classes. Approximately 30 high school students from around the county and city gained valuable information that enabled them to become future leaders locally and in other communities where they have chosen to live. Adults gained insight that has led to a number of improvements to the local city and county.
Elliott was also involved in bringing the PJC Tech Center, now PJC-Sulphur Springs to the city.
His personal interest in each one he became acquainted with was evident in a comment on social media by a high school leadership alumnus, “I loved him! He was so so kind and did a wonderful job leading and starting our leadership class at SSHS. He always remembered your name and asked how things were. ”
A former teacher wrote, “Billy Sam was such a kind man. He might’ve been on an urgent mission, but he always had time to stop and chat. He had that special gift of making others feel important…. Billy Sam wanted and worked for the best for SS. and he never minded working behind the scenes… He was a true gentleman.”
Elliott served as a member of the Sulphur Springs Fire Department and Rescue Unit, Assistant Cub Scout Master of Pack 69, president of SSHS Wildcat Band Boosters, chairman of the Hopkins County Heritage and Museum Association, member of Hopkins County Civic Center Board, member of the ARK-LA-TEX council of Governments. In 1983 Billy Sam was honored as Hopkins County Citizen of the Year.
Elliott was a lifetime member of First United Methodist Church where as a youth he obtained the Boy Scout Rank of Life and as an adult served on the administrative board. He worked for Nordstrom Valve as a safety director for many years. He enjoyed traveling with Rickie and their sons. From San Francisco to Washington DC, from South Dakota to Big Bend National Park, from Yellowstone to the Great Smokey Mountains, the adventures he provided created a lifetime of memories, according to the family.
Born on June 4, 1943, in Sulphur Springs, the son of William S. “Bill” and Marguerite Gilbert Elliott, he married Rickie Carpenter on November 19, 1964, at Wesley Methodist Church in Greenville, TX. She survives.
In addition to his wife, he is also survived by sons, William S. “Trey” Elliott III of Paris, Richard Joel Elliott of North Lake, grandson, William S. “Will” Elliott, IV of Paris, and sisters, Sherry Elliott Baxter and husband Max of Sulphur Springs, and Annada Elliott Jones and husband James of Sulphur Springs.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Funeral services for William S. “Billy Sam” Elliott, age 75, of Sulphur Springs, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, July 29, 2018, at West Oaks Funeral Home with Bro. Charles Moore officiating. Interment will follow at Mt. Zion Cemetery with Mike Blount, Ronnie Branscome, Mike Broyles, Bob Carpenter, Jim Gilbert, John Icenhower, Charles Snell, and Key Walker serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be Max (Poss) Baxter and James Jones. Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., Saturday, July 28, 2018 at West Oaks Funeral Home.
Memorials may be made to Mt. Zion Cemetery Association, 16256 TX Hwy 11 W, Cumby, TX 75433. Arrangements are under the direction of West Oaks Funeral Home.
Wood County Sheriff’s Report July 11-17, 2018
Wood County Sheriff’s Report for July 11, 2018 to July 17, 2018: Disturbance: 8; Thefts: 5; Burglaries: 1; Terroristic Threats: 2; Criminal Mischiefs: 0; Inquests: 2; Suspicious Circumstances: 2; Suspicious Vehicles: 7; Suspicious Persons: 2; Alarms: 8; Harassments: 7; Criminal Trespasses: 3; Scams: 1; Frauds: 1; Abandoned Vehicles: 0; Cows Out: 12; Horses Out: 5; Welfare Checks: 4; Assaults: 5; Dog Bites: 0; Fires: 1; Noise Complaints: 1; Disputes: 2; Arrest/Warrant Services: 10; Reckless Drivers: 2; Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle: 1; Shots Fired: 1; Other: Traffic Stop (1); Identity Theft: (1)
July 11th
At 1:28 a.m., cows were reported out on CR 4250 near Winnsboro.
Deputies responded to an arrest/warrant service at the Wood County Sheriff’s Office; at approximately 3:54 a.m. James McDonald, 35, of Quitman, was arrested for an outstanding warrant. Cason Cordova, 31, of Quitman, was arrested for an outstanding warrant.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4925 near Quitman, at approximately 4:35 a.m., in reference to an assault. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
At 6:20 a.m., horses were reported out on FM 2966 near Quitman.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2944 near Mineola, at approximately 6:27 a.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2275 near Mineola, at approximately 7:45 a.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service to CR 2275 near Mineola; at approximately 8:05 a.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to make contact with the individual.
At 8:07 a.m., cows were reported out on CR 2336 near Mineola.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service to FM 2225 near Quitman; at approximately 8:20 a.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to make contact with the individual.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 37 near Mineola, at approximately 8:50 a.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
At 9:37 a.m., horses were reported out on FM 2966 near Yantis.
At 11:30 a.m., horses were reported out on FM 2966 near Yantis.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service to CR 2336 near Mineola; at approximately 12:37 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to make contact with the individual.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 2869 near Hawkins, at approximately 1:15 p.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1590 near Alba, at approximately 2:32 p.m., in reference to a dispute. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any individuals.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 4:09 p.m., in reference to identity theft. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2426 near Mineola, at approximately 4:11 p.m., in reference to an assault. Deputies spoke with all parties involved and cleared the incident.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 5:07 p.m., in reference to harassment that occurred on White Foot near Quitman. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 5:18 p.m., in reference to fraud that occurred on CR 2745 near Mineola. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3812 near Hawkins, at approximately 7:20 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. Deputies spoke with all parties and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1540 near Alba, at approximately 8:46 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. Deputies spoke with all parties involved and cleared the incident.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 10:21 p.m., in reference to an unauthorized use of a motor vehicle on CR 3802 near Hawkins. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on FM 49 near Hawkins; at approximately 11:33 p.m. Deputies located the vehicle and everything was OK.
July 12th
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2426 near Mineola, at approximately 12:31 a.m., in reference to a disturbance. Cheryl Pipkin, 57, of Mineola, was arrested for Assault.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service to CR 3160 near Quitman; at approximately 2:41 a.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to make contact with the individual.
At 10:49 a.m., horses were reported out on FM 515 near Alba.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 11:39 a.m., in reference to terroristic threat that occurred on HWY 154 near Quitman. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 515 near Winnsboro, at approximately 12:30 p.m., in reference to an inquest. A male, 53, was found deceased in his residence. The Justice of the Peace arrived and ordered an autopsy. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1487 near Quitman, at approximately 5:23 p.m., in reference to a burglary. Actors, or actors unknown, rummaged through the reporting party’s property without consent. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 515 near Yantis, at approximately 6:45 p.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 80 near Mineola, at approximately 7:06 p.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on Fm 779 near Alba; at approximately 9:46 p.m. Deputies located the vehicle and everything was OK.
July 13th
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4420 near Winnsboro, at approximately 12:48 a.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any suspicious activity.
At 1:39 a.m., cows were reported out on Loop 564 near Mineola.
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle at Lake Holbrook point; at approximately 3:05 a.m. Deputies located the vehicle and everything was OK.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 8:38 a.m., in reference to a terroristic threat that occurred on HWY 11 near Winnsboro. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4200 near Winnsboro, at approximately 10:02 a.m., in reference to harassment. Deputies spoke with all parties involved and cleared the incident.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 12:08 p.m., in reference to harassment that occurred on CR 1900 near Yantis. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 11 near Winnsboro, at approximately 2:11 p.m., in reference to a reckless driver. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the vehicle.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2375 near Alba, at approximately 5:18 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. Deputies spoke with all parties involved and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1900 near Yantis, at approximately 5:32 p.m., in reference to theft. Actors, or actors unknown, stole hay bales from the reporting party’s property. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to Firelight Lane near Hawkins, at approximately 7:31 p.m., in reference to a dispute. Deputies spoke with all parties involved and cleared the incident.
At 8:03 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 778 near Quitman.
July 14th
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on FM 14 near Hawkins; at approximately 12:11 a.m. Deputies located the vehicle and everything was OK.
Deputies responded to a suspicious person on FM 779 near Mineola, at approximately 5:04 a.m. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1226 near Quitman, at approximately 9:18 a.m., in reference to criminal trespass. Deputies advised the reporting party that extra patrol would be provided.
At 9:37 a.m., cows were reported out on HWY 37 near Winnsboro.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 9:38 a.m., in reference to harassment that occurred on CR 1895 near Yantis. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
At 10:41 a.m., cows were reported out on CR 4255 near Winnsboro.
At 11:26 a.m., cows were reported out on CR 4390 near Winnsboro.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 312 near Winnsboro, at approximately 1:45 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2377 near Alba, at approximately 2:21 p.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 2:25 p.m., in reference to harassment that occurred on FM 288 near Quitman. Deputies made contact with all parties involved and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2132 near Quitman, at approximately 8:19 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. The individual was transported to the hospital by EMS.
Deputies were dispatched to PR 8563 near Winnsboro, at approximately 8:47 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. Deputies spoke with all parties involved and cleared the incident.
At 9:15 p.m., cows were reported out on CR 4255 near Winnsboro.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 154 near Quitman, at approximately 11:34 p.m., in reference to an assault that occurred. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
July 15th
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2436 near Mineola, at approximately 12:05 a.m., in reference to a noise complaint. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any activity.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2165 near Quitman, at approximately 12:32 a.m., in reference to a theft. A known actor stole several items from the reporting party’s residence. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on FM 17 near Alba; at approximately 1:24 a.m. Deputies located the vehicle and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3909 near Hawkins, at approximately 2:05 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. Lee Loughmiller, 58, of Hawkins, was arrested for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 778 near Quitman, at approximately 5:43 p.m., in reference to a fire. Quitman Fire Department extinguished the fire. This case is active.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 17 near Alba, at approximately 6:47 p.m., in reference to criminal trespass. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the individual and issue the Criminal Trespass Warning.
At 7:18 p.m., horses were reported out on CR 3920 near Hawkins.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 8:03 p.m., in reference to harassment that occurred on FM 2088 near Quitman. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on FM 1799 near Mineola; at approximately 8:37 p.m. Deputies located the vehicle and everything was OK.
July 16th
At 9:38 a.m., cows were reported out on CR 4660 near Winnsboro.
At 11:10 a.m., cows were reported out on FM 852 near Winnsboro.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 17 near Alba, at approximately 12:09 p.m., in reference to theft. Deputies spoke with the reporting party and determined it was a civil matter.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1423 near Quitman, at approximately 1:12 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. The individual was located and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 1799 near Mineola, at approximately 4:02 p.m., in reference to an assault that occurred. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
At 6:28 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 182 near Quitman.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service to CR 3540 near Hawkins; at approximately 6:47 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to make contact with the individual.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 2869 near Winnsboro, at approximately 6:48 p.m., in reference to a reckless driver. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the vehicle.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service to CR 3540 near Hawkins; at approximately 7:21 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to make contact with the individual.
At 9:49 p.m., cows were reported out on CR 4255 near Winnsboro.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3875 near Mineola, at approximately 10:09 p.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any suspicious activity.
Deputies responded to a suspicious person on Oak St. in Yantis; at approximately 10:30 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the individual.
Deputies were dispatched PR 8699 near Winnsboro, at approximately 11:05 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. Parties were separated for the night.
July 17th
Deputies conducted a traffic stop on CR 1902 near Yantis; at approximately 2:18 a.m. David Slavens, 38, of Mineola, was arrested for Tamper/Fabricate Physical Evidence.
Deputies were dispatched to Alba High School, at approximately 8:10 a.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the area and determined it was the construction crew that accidentally set the alarm off.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 312 near Winnsboro, at approximately 12:32 p.m., in reference to an inquest. A female, 93, was found deceased in her residence. The Justice of the Peace was notified and no autopsy was ordered.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 12:45 p.m., in reference to a scam that occurred on CR 2279 near Mineola. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 1:06 p.m., in reference to phone harassment that occurred on CR 2267 near Mineola. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 1:25 p.m., in reference to theft that occurred on FM 2869 near Hawkins. Actors, or actors unknown, used the reporting party’s credit card without authorization. This case is active.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 1801 near Mineola, at approximately 2:01 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. Parties were separated for the day.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3600 near Hawkins, at approximately 2:27 p.m., in reference to theft. Actors, or actors unknown, stole two 12-volt batteries from the reporting party’s property. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to Holly Trail East near Hawkins, at approximately 3:16 p.m., in reference to an assault that occurred. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2375 near Mineola, at approximately 4:35 p.m., in reference to criminal trespass. Deputies issued a Criminal Trespass Warning and cleared the incident.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service to FM 37 near Quitman; at approximately 7:08 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to make contact with the individual.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service to CR 3540 near Hawkins; at approximately 7:44 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to make contact with the individual.
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on CR 1610 near Alba; at approximately 7:50 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the vehicle.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1960 near Yantis, at approximately 8:35 p.m., in reference to shots fired. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any activity.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2310 near Mineola, at approximately 9:35 p.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service to FM 37 near Mineola; at approximately 9:59 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to make contact with the individual.
Between the dates of July 11 and July 17, Wood County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to multiple agency assists that included the following: Police Departments, Child Protective Services and Department of Public Safety.
Between the dates of July 11 and July 17, Wood County Sheriff’s Investigators filed 1 case with the District Attorney, obtained 1 arrest warrant and arrested the individual, and recovered $15,700 worth of stolen property.
Total Jail Count – 126 inmates – 101 males and 25 females.
Sheriff Castloo would like to remind everyone…if you have any information on these or any other crimes, please contact the Wood County Sheriff’s Office at 903-763-2201 or Crime Stoppers at 903-763-CASH.
Contact the Wood County Sheriff’s Office if you notice any suspicious vehicles or activity around your neighborhood. Please be aware of your surroundings.
Local Man Arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance in Drug Free Zone
A traffic stop in the 700 block of Main Street by Sulphur Springs Police resulted in the arrest of Steven Joe Garrett, Jr., 27 of Sulphur Springs.
The police officer searched Garrett’s 2005 Altima with the driver’s consent and found contraband. The arrest was made in a Drug Free Zone. Garrett was arrested earlier this month on drug charges.
Garrett is in Hopkins County Jail charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance Penalty Group 3, less than 28-grams, a State Jail Felony.
Local Woman Arrested in Traffic Stop
A traffic stop at the 126 mile marker on I-30 resulted in the arrest of Crystal Dawn Sims, 36, of Sulphur Springs.
With consent to search, the Hopkins County Deputy noted a purse in the passenger seat. Sims was asked if anything illegal was in the purse. She answered there was nothing illegal in it. A search of the purse produced a package of cigarettes containing a syringe and cotton swab and a small clear plastic baggie containing a crystal like substance believed to be Methamphetamine.
Sims is in Hopkins County Jail charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance Penalty Group 1, less than 1-gram.
Ten Reasons to Smile; Back to School Fair
Why Smile? Ten Reasons Why
Do you know anybody who seems to always have a smile? I do! Every Sunday morning from the choir loft at my church, I have the perfect view of a sweet lady who smiles during our choir special, during congregational singing, and while listening to the morning message. It seems to brighten my spirit, and makes me want to smile, too!
Smiling is a great way to make yourself stand out while helping your body to function better. Smile to improve your health, your stress level, and your attractiveness. Works cited by M Stibich, “Longevity Magazine” give the following 10 reasons to smile:
1) Smiling makes us attractive. We are drawn to people who smile. There is an attraction factor. We want to know a smiling person and figure out what is so good. Frowns, scowls, and grimaces all push people away, but a smile draws them in.
2) Smiling changes our mood. The next time you are feeling down, try putting on a smile. There’s a good chance your mood will change for the better. Smiling can trick the body into helping you change your mood.
3) Smiling is contagious. When someone is smiling, they lighten up the room, change the moods of others, and make things seem happier A smiling person brings happiness with them Smiling will draw people to you.
4) Smiling relieves stress. Stress can be evident in our faces. Smiling helps to prevent us from looking tired, worn down, and overwhelmed. When you are stressed, take time to put on a smile. The stress should be reduced and you’ll be better able to take action.
5) Smiling boosts your immune system and helps it work better. When you smile, immune function improves possibly because you are more relaxed.
6) Smiling lowers your blood pressure. When you smile, there is a measurable reduction in your blood pressure. If you have a blood pressure monitor at home, sit for a few minutes and take a reading. Then smile for a minutes and take another reading while still smiling. Do you notice a difference?
7) Smiling releases endorphins, natural pain kills and serotonin. Together, these three make us feel good. Smiling is a natural drug.
8) Smiling lifts the face and makes you look younger. The muscles we use to smile lift the face making a person appear younger. Don’t go for a face lift – just try smiling your way through the day. You’ll look and feel better.
9) Smiling makes you seem successful. Smiling people appear more confident, and are more likely to be approached. Put on a smile at meeting and appointments and people will react to you differently.
10) Smiling helps you stay positive. Try this test: Smile. Now try to think of something negative without losing the smile. It’s difficult to do! When we smile, our body is sending the rest of us a message that “life is good.” Stay away from depression, stress and worry by smiling. It’s contagious!
Back to School Fair
Students don’t always like to hear the phrase, “back to school,” but our community is offering a great event to help them get in the mood for the new school year! The 2nd annual county-wide “Back to School Fair” will take place on Friday, August 10, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m., at the Hopkins County Civic Center. This event will be a one-stop destination to prepare the whole family for the start of school. The fair will offer free health and vision screening, dental screenings and fluoride applications, immunizations for children and adults, haircuts, food and beverages. In addition, community booths will offer games, prizes, and great information.
Be sure to stop by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension exhibit for information on packing a safe and health school lunch, upcoming programs, and the nutrition spin wheel game for kids. We’ll also have a 4-H exhibit, where 4-H members and leaders will provide information about 4-H enrollment and upcoming 4-H events (including national 4-H week, 4-H project show, and the county-wide 4-H Christmas party). We’ll also provide copies the 4-H Gazette newsletter, and offer a fun bean bag toss game.
School supplies will be distributed to pre-qualified families. Contact Shanna Martin at CAN Help for information – 903-885-9797.
Closing Thought
Don’t wait for things to get easier, simpler, or better. Life will always be complicated. Learn to be happy right now. Otherwise, you’ll run out of time – Lessonslearnedinlife.com

Johanna Hicks
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension
Family & Consumer Sciences
1200-B W. Houston
P.O.Box 518
Sulphur springs, TX 75483
903-885-3443 – phone
903-439-4909 – Fax
[email protected]
Lights Out U-10 Baseball Give Back to Community and Sponsor

Brayden Brown and Rhett Vaughn along with members and coaches of Lights Out Under 10 baseball team unload boxes of supplies that will be placed in backpacks for a Back to School Bash August 11th . The backpacks will be given first come, first served to Hopkins County students.

Tira News for July 27th, 2018

By Jan Vaughn
Kim & Lee Beck had a long weekend moving daughter, Maddie, to Austin, and then heading over to Lake Bridgeport for some lake time with their old high school rodeo team members. Kim comments, “Sun & fun!”
Tira Mayor, Powell Vickery, is recovering from a stroke. Please remember him and Sherry in your prayers.
Chip & I were in Branson, Missouri from July 12th through 15th , for our anniversary, which was on July 14th . We enjoyed a show each night. They were all very good. Samson, the Biblical story, at the Sight and Sound Theater, was amazing! We went to the Promised Land Zoo on Saturday and enjoyed the drive-through safari and all the other animals in the walk-through sections. Of course, we enjoyed delicious food throughout the weekend.
On Thursday evening, July 19 th , we drove to Lake Conroe and spent the night at Piney Shores Resort, before picking up our great-granddaughter, Dixie, in Sour Lake. She came back with us to spend a couple of weeks with Landon, Laiken, Rylan, Brailon, and Slaiden Joslin. They have all been in Florida, with Laiken’s family this week. They’ve been having fun at Fort Walton Beach.
I always need and appreciate input from my friends to help keep me informed of news in our community. If you have any news pertaining to Tira residents, past or present, please contact me, Jan Vaughn, at 903-945-2190 or 903-438-6688 or [email protected] .
Basket Raffle Benefiting New Senior Center


Kyllingas By Mario Villarino

Kyllingas (Kyllinga spp.) belong to the sedge family (Cyperaceae) and at first glance can look like grasses, especially in mowed turf. However, closer inspection reveals that their stem, floral, and vegetative charac- teristics are quite different from grasses. Unlike grasses, they have pith-filled triangular stems and three-ranked leaves. The leaf blades of sedges appear waxy and have a v-shaped groove.
The sedge family (Cyperaceae) is one of the largest families of monocots in Texas and con- tains hundreds of different species. Kyllinga plants are commonly found in plant beds, ditch banks, and low-lying wet areas. Kyllingas are typically much smaller and more able to persist in turf mowed to 1 inch or less. It can be a mat-forming perennial that crowds out desirable turf in mowed settings. Kyllingas can also be distinguished by their roundish, congested seedheads.
Sedges often indicate chronically excessive soil moisture, which should always be addressed as part of an overall treatment program. Kyllinga species are generally the most difficult sedge to control. Removing sedges by hand is effective if you take care to remove all underground tubers and rhizomes. Adequate soil moisture will make tuber removal easier, especially in heavy clay soils.
Selective herbicide options: There are several herbicides available that can control kyllinga effectively. For herbicides to control weeds adequately and not injure the desirable turfgrass they must be applied to healthy, actively growing turfgrass at the rate indicated on the label. Always read the product label for application requirements and conditions. Halosulfuron-methyl(Manage, Sedgehammer), Imazaquin (Image) Sulfosulfuron (Certainty) Sulfentrazone (Ortho Nutsedge Killer for Lawns) can be applied to most turfgrass species including St. Augustinegrass. You will likely see results within 48 hours, and it will suppress sedges for at least 2 to 4 weeks. However, you may need to make repeated applications for long-term control. Additional herbicides are available to professional applicators. For more information contact the Hopkins County Extension Office at 903-885-3443 or email me at [email protected].

Mario Villarino DVM, Ph.D.
Hopkins County Extension Agent for Ag and NR
1200B Houston Street
Sulphur Springs, Texas 75482
903-885-3443





